What to look out for when inspecting properties

It can be difficult to know what to look out for, especially when you’re excited and it's your 1st home or investment purchase!

When you find a property that ticks your boxes, you’ll want to be ready to move fast, so remember to talk to us about getting a pre-purchase valuation to ensure you're getting value for money.

Here are a few items to be mindful of when doing your inspections. It's designed to help you inspect properties effectively BUT remember, it won’t rule out the need for a professional pest and building inspection on the place you decide to buy!

Structural issues: These are generally the most expensive and difficult problems to repair. During the inspection, keep your eyes peeled for signs of subsidence, uneven floors, cracks in the walls or brickwork, or doors that don’t close properly.

Plumbing issues: Don’t be shy about turning on the taps in the kitchen and bathrooms. Make sure the water pressure is good and the drains are operating well.

Dampness: Stains, water marks and damaged / peeling paint may indicate the property has issues with dampness. Sometimes, vendors try to paint over problems, so use your sense of smell during the inspection.

Mould: This may be an indication of a bigger, more expensive problem, such as a leaky roof, plumbing issues, inadequate ventilation, or rising damp. All of these can be expensive to fix, so check bathrooms, ceilings, window frames and walls meticulously.

Termites: When you’re inspecting a property, look for the tell-tale signs – sagging or buckling floors, hollow-sounding beams and “mud leads”. A bad termite problem may produce a sweet, sugary smell. No matter where you live in Australia, always get a pest and building inspection, because termites are everywhere and they can be costly to evict!

Wiring: If the property is sporting a 1970s chandelier, or antiquated switches and sockets, the electrical wiring may be outdated and it could end up costing you to rewire. Check the electrical box as this will tell you when the system was last updated. If it does not have a residual current circuit breaker, then it has probably not been brought up to modern standards.

Appliances: It’s always a good idea to take a good look at the fixed appliances such as the oven, stove, air-conditioner, dishwasher and heating system. If they look like they are on their last legs, you’ll need to factor in the cost of getting them replaced.

Renovations: Homes at the less pricey end of the market often have outdated kitchens and bathrooms. Many first home buyers think they can live with the situation until they save up to do a renovation, however you need to be realistic – these can be expensive to replace so get a quote so you can factor it into your budget! If renovations have already been done, check the quality.

Asbestos: Properties built before 1990 may contain asbestos. During the inspection, find out when the property was built and ask about the construction materials. If the property is of ‘fibro construction’ it probably has asbestos - which is not dangerous if it is in good condition, but get your building inspector to check carefully before you move ahead with a purchase.

Roof: Stand back in the street and cast your eye over the roof. What is it made of – tin or tiles? Is it rusty? Are there any missing or damaged tiles? Does the pointing between the tiles look crumbly? These can all indicate the roof needs work, so if it looks at all suspicious, be sure to get it checked out properly as a new roof can be costly.

This isn't a comprehensive list but simply a guide. Even if you’ve developed a good eye and nose for trouble, protect yourself by getting a professional pre - purchase valuation as well as a pest and building inspection before you buy anything!

This article provides general information only and has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. It does not constitute legal, tax or financial advice and you should always seek professional advice in relation to your individual circumstances.

Disclaimer - The information provided in this article is reproduced from various articles / authors / websites. AVG Valuers or any of its related entities or of third parties makes no guarantee to the accuracy and integrity of the communication, it's completeness, currentness, suitability or validity, for any of the information on this site. It will not be liable for any errors, omissions in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. All information is provided on an as-is basis and we also recommend obtaining professional advise from a qualified accountant and / or financial adviser with experienced in this area.

Disclaimer - The information provided in our articles are reproduced from various articles / authors and/or websites and is for general information only. They are prepared without taking into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. We recommend that you consider whether it is appropriate for your circumstances and your full financial situation. It does not constitute legal, tax or financial advice and you should always seek professional advice in relation to your individual circumstances. AVG Valuers or any of its related entities and third parties makes no guarantee to the accuracy and integrity of the communication, it's completeness, currentness, suitability or validity, for any of the information on this site. It will not be liable for any errors, omissions in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. All information is provided on an as-is basis and we also recommend obtaining professional advise from a qualified accountant and / or financial adviser with experience in this area. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation